In this guide
The cheapest way to connect a laptop to a TV is a standard HDMI cable (under $10) if both devices have HDMI ports. If your laptop only has USB-C, a USB-C to HDMI adapter costs under $15 and is still cheaper than any wireless option.
- Both laptop and TV have HDMI ports
- Laptop has USB-C with video output and you use a USB-C to HDMI adapter
- You switch the TV to the correct HDMI input after connecting
- Your laptop only has older VGA or DVI ports with no HDMI
- You try to use a non-video USB-A port with a simple cable
- The TV has no HDMI ports at all
The Cheapest Options by Laptop Port
Your cheapest connection depends entirely on which ports your laptop has. Check the sides of your laptop before buying anything.
| Setup | Works? | Need | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI laptop → HDMI TV | Yes | HDMI cable (~$6–$10) | Best value, no adapter needed |
| USB-C laptop → HDMI TV | Yes | USB-C to HDMI adapter (~$10–$15) | USB-C must support video out |
| VGA laptop → HDMI TV | Yes | VGA to HDMI converter (~$15–$20) | Audio not included in VGA signal |
| Wireless (Chromecast etc.) | Yes | Dongle (~$30+) + Wi-Fi | Most expensive, adds latency |
HDMI Cable: The Default Cheapest Choice
If your laptop has a full-size HDMI port, a basic HDMI cable is all you need. A reputable cable from Amazon or a local store costs $6–$10 and carries both video and audio in one cable. There is no adapter, no driver, and no setup beyond switching the TV input.
According to HP’s official laptop-to-TV guide, HDMI is the recommended wired connection for most modern laptops because it handles 1080p and 4K without any extra hardware.
USB-C Laptop? You Still Have a Cheap Option
Many modern thin laptops have dropped HDMI in favour of USB-C. If your port supports video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode), a USB-C to HDMI adapter is the next cheapest route at around $10–$15. Plug the adapter into your laptop, run a standard HDMI cable to the TV, and you’re done.
Not all USB-C ports carry video. Check your laptop specs or manufacturer page before buying. If the adapter connects but nothing appears on screen, see our guide on why USB-C to HDMI is not working for quick fixes.
Why Wireless Is Not the Cheapest
Wireless options like Chromecast, Roku, or Miracast dongles cost $30 or more upfront and require a stable Wi-Fi connection. They also introduce noticeable latency, which makes them poor for gaming or anything time-sensitive. A wired cable is always cheaper and more reliable for basic TV mirroring or extended display use.
Quick Checklist Before You Buy
- Check your laptop for HDMI, USB-C, or Mini DisplayPort
- Check your TV for available HDMI inputs
- Buy HDMI cable first — only add an adapter if no HDMI port exists
- Avoid buying a wireless solution unless cable routing is physically impossible
Bottom line: A $6–$10 HDMI cable is the cheapest way to connect a laptop to a TV when both devices have HDMI ports. If your laptop is USB-C only, a USB-C to HDMI adapter for around $10–$15 keeps costs low and still beats every wireless alternative on price and reliability.